Gen Yamamoto, Den, and Tempura Matsu: On every future trip to Japan, these three spots will be at the top of our list! Not only because of the wonderful food and drinks, but because the passion and personalities of the people involved make them such memorable experiences.
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Gen Yamamoto
This is a serene, contemplative experience – the drinks are petite and focused more on flavor than alcohol content. Each showcases a fresh fruit or vegetable (tomato, peach, kiwi) that is matched with shochu or another spirit.
Reservations are a must as there are just 8 seats. Choose a flight of 4, 6, or 8 cocktails (there is no food). It’s a destination in itself!
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Den
Whimsical, fun, lively – and such good food! Den recently moved to a bigger location but is still jam-packed; getting a reservation requires diligent efforts on the phone. There are plenty of regulars and a smattering of food bloggers wielding large cameras.
We were delighted that the team remembered us!
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Tempura Matsu
Perhaps because it’s away from the touristy parts of Kyoto, Tempura Matsu still seems a bit under the radar. The food puts a bit of modern spin on kaiseki tradition, the chef and his sister are delightful, and I’m obsessed with their irreplaceable antique dishware.
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Tempura Matsu was everything that you said. S and I had our best meal in Japan there. Thanks for scouting it.